Wednesday, October 25, 2006

Green gram dal is a good source of protein and a healthy nutritious food.On the other hand plantain contains energy-giving fructose (low on the glycemic index), and good source of dietary fiber.Here is a delicious recipe made with whole green gram dal and plantain.IngredientsOne raw plantain cut into small pieces2 cups -Green gram dal1 tsp - Red chili powder1/2 tsp - Turmeric powder Salt to taste

Grind to a paste1/2 cup - Grated coconut1 tsp - Jeera1 - Shallot /small onion1/2 tsp - Turmeric powder1 tsp - Red chili powderSeasoning1 tbsp - Mustard seeds3 - Shallots, diced2 sprigs - Curry leaves3 - Whole red chiliMethod1 ) In a pot cook green gram dal and plantain in enough water with red chili powder, turmeric powder and salt. Otherwise you can pressure cook these ingredients. In 4 cups water pressure cook. After the first whistle, lower heat and cook for 5 to 10 minutes. Open cooker after cooling down.2 ) Grind the ingredients listed to be ground to a smooth paste and add to the cooked green gram dal. Add more water to get a curry consistency. Check salt and adjust as required. Bring the curry to a boil and turn off the stove.3 ) Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds and pop it. Then add shallot, curry leaves and whole red chilli. Season the curry with this seasoning. Serve with rice or puttu.

I loved this one. I didn't have green gram at home. So I used vanpayar instead. Next time i'll make it with green gram. I had invited my friends home for vishu and this was one of the dishes. They all loved it. Thanks Praveena chechi!